Description
A refreshing and easy-to-make homemade lemonade recipe using fresh lemon juice and a simple syrup base. Perfect for a summer drink, this classic beverage is balanced with natural sweetness and tartness, and can be customized with various garnishes and flavors.
Ingredients
Simple Syrup
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup water
Lemonade
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 4–6 lemons)
- 3 1/4 cups cold water
- 1 cup ice cubes
- lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
- fresh mint (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and 3/4 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved, creating a clear simple syrup. Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the syrup to cool slightly.
- Mix Lemonade: In a large pitcher, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the prepared simple syrup. Pour in the remaining 3 1/4 cups of cold water and stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Adjust Sweetness and Chill: Add ice cubes to the pitcher. Taste the lemonade and adjust its sweetness or tartness by adding more sugar or lemon juice if desired. Refrigerate and chill the lemonade for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the lemonade over ice in glasses. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves if desired for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- For flavored variations, add mashed berries, cucumber slices, or herbs like basil or rosemary to customize the taste.
- Substitute granulated sugar with natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
